Coaches & Mentors
> Schedule
A.H. Nickless Innovation Award competition schedule: 2025-26
Phase One
Teams will submit two-page descriptions (abstracts) of their projects by the close of Phase One in late October. In late November, regional experts will choose up to 20 project abstracts to continue in the competition. The selected teams will each receive $1,000 to develop their projects and cover their expenses.
Phase Two
The teams chosen to move on to Phase Two will work on their project reports for the final submission deadline in late March. Projects will be presented and judged and winners will be announced during the Phase Two judging event in April.
MILESTONE |
Date |
|---|---|
| Phase One open enrollment period begins: Teams register for the competition and submit their project abstracts | Wednesday, September 3, 2025 |
| Phase One closes | 4 p.m. EDT Friday, October 31, 2025 |
| Up to 20 teams chosen to move on to Phase Two | Late November |
| Phase Two – $1,000 participation grants distributed | Late November |
| Phase Two - final project submission period begins | Tuesday, March 24, 2026 (approx.) |
| Phase Two – final project submission due | 4 p.m. EDT Tuesday, March 31, 2026 |
| Phase Two judging event – projects presented; winners announced | 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. EDT |